The Exfo FVA-3100-DEI is a variable optical attenuator engineered for precise control of optical signal power across telecommunications testing and manufacturing environments. It delivers attenuation up to 100 dB with 0.01 dB resolution, supporting both singlemode and multimode fiber configurations. The instrument operates across 700 nm to 1350 nm with ultra-low insertion loss (typically 1.5 dB) and high spectral uniformity (± 0.1 dB), making it ideal for EDFA characterization, component and system loss simulation, instrument calibration, and power meter linearity measurement.
## Technical Specifications
• Attenuation range: 0–100 dB
• Attenuation resolution: 0.01 dB
• Wavelength range: 700 nm to 1350 nm
• Insertion loss: Typically 1.5 dB
• Spectral uniformity: ± 0.1 dB
• Supported fiber types: Singlemode (9/125 µm), Multimode (50/125 µm, 62.5/125 µm, 100/140 µm)
• Calibration wavelengths: 1310 nm and 1550 nm (singlemode); 850 nm and 1300 nm (multimode)
• Display modes: Absolute, Reference, Offset
• Programmable attenuation steps: Up to 100
• Dwell time per step: Up to 1000 hours
• Operating temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C
• Storage temperature: –40 °C to 70 °C
• Relative humidity: 0 % to 80 % non-condensing
• Dimensions: 117 mm (H) × 222 mm (W) × 333 mm (D)
• Weight: 2.6 kg
## Key Features
• High repeatability and accuracy across full attenuation range
• Return loss limited by connector return loss
• Front-panel manual control with user-defined step adjustment and direct value editing
• GPIB (IEEE-488.1, IEEE-488.2) and RS-232 remote control
• LabVIEW drivers and SCPI command support
• Monitor output port for power-level verification at receiver (select models)
• Multiple connector options: FC/UPC, FC/PC, DIN 47256, HMS-10/AG, ST, SC, E-2000, and APC (singlemode)
## Typical Applications
• EDFA characterization
• Component and system loss simulation
• Instrument calibration
• Power meter linearity measurement
• Spectral tuning
• Automated bit-error-rate (BER) testing
• Linearity measurements via programmable attenuation sequencing
## Compatibility & Integration
The FVA-3100-DEI operates as a standalone benchtop unit or integrates into 19-inch rack systems. Connector adapters such as the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) may be required depending on fiber type and connector configuration.
